Dawson returns to training

Tottenham defender Michael Dawson has stepped up his return from injury by resuming full training for the first time since September.

The England international has been out since Spurs’ 5-1 loss to Manchester City in August with an Achilles injury which required surgery in November.

Dawson admits his absence from the first team has been a difficult period, and is keen to get back to Premier League action as soon as possible.

He told the club’s official website: “It’s been a tough time. I’m a footballer and I want to be out there training, not stuck in the gym recovering from injury. As I’ve said all along, you tend to take it all for granted when you are fit.”

“I came through the session okay, everything’s fine and I can’t wait for the next step, being back out there playing again.”

Spurs have lost just once in 15 games since the defeat to Roberto Mancini’s side, with Ledley King, Younes Kaboul, William Gallas and Sebastien Bassong providing cover for the injured Dawson.